
Cutback Bitumen MC-70 Definition
Cutback bitumen MC-70 refers to a type of bitumen that is a mixture of bitumen and a volatile solvent, typically kerosene. The “MC” stands for Medium Curing, indicating its medium curing rate. The “70” represents the viscosity of the bitumen in centistokes at 60°C. This type of bitumen is commonly used in road construction and maintenance for applications such as priming and tack coating.
Cutback Bitumen MC-70 is medium curing (MC) cut-back asphalt consisting of penetration grade asphalt cement and diluent or cutter of medium volatility. The diluent temporarily reduces the viscosity of the asphalt cement for ease of handling and application. After application, the diluent evaporates, leaving asphalt cement to perform its function. Cutback MC-70 use in Roofing – As a waterproofing membrane and as an adhesive to stick chippings onto a flat, horizontal roof to minimize the effects of weathering from the sun.
Cutback bitumen MC-70 is dissolved of bitumen in solvents of kerosene. In many countries, kerosene and other volatile petroleum-derived products are added as a cutter or cutback agent to bitumen to reduce (or cutback) the viscosity of the bitumen. The mixture obtained may be called cutback bitumen. The reduction in viscosity of the bitumen aids the construction of seal coats in road pavements as the softened mixture wets the chips more easily. The cutback agent evaporates from the seal coat, the cutback agent becoming a negligible component of the seal coat a few months after application. If significant amounts of the cutback agent remain in the seal coat an unwanted long-term softening effect may result.
Our MC-70 Cutback Bitumen complies with cutback petroleum asphalts of the Medium-Curing type for use in the construction and treatment of pavements as per ASTM D2028-97 reapproved in 2004. Cutback Grade Bitumen is normally used in spraying and in some mixing applications. Cutback Bitumen is penetration grade bitumen blended with a solvent such as kerosene, white spirit, gasoline, and naphtha, controlling the curing time. Cut back petroleum asphalts of the rapid curing type supplied by ZUMRUT Company are petroleum grade bitumen manufactured from the fractional / vacuum distillation of crude oil blended with a solvent. Bitumen supplied by ZUMRUT is produced from the vacuum residue (short residue) feedstock. Penetration Grade bitumens are specified by the penetration and softening point test. Designation is by penetration range only. The penetration grade bitumens have a thermoplastic property which causes the material to soften at high temperatures and to harden at lower temperatures. This unique temperature/ viscosity relationship is important when determining the performance parameters such as the adhesion, rheology, durability, and application temperatures of bitumen. The cutback bitumen (Asphalts) supplied by ZUMRUT are blended from petroleum grade bitumen as stated herein.
Cutback Bitumen MC-70 Applications
Cutback bitumen MC-70 has several applications in road construction and maintenance:
- Priming: It is used as a primer to prepare the surface of the road before laying asphalt or other surfacing materials. Priming helps to improve the adhesion between the existing surface and the new layer.
- Tack Coat: MC-70 can be applied as a tack coat to promote bonding between asphalt layers. Tack coats help prevent delamination and increase the structural integrity of the pavement.
- Dust Control: It can be used for dust control on unpaved roads or surfaces by binding loose particles together, reducing dust emissions, and stabilizing the surface.
- Surface Dressing: MC-70 can be used in surface dressing applications, where it is sprayed onto the surface of the road and covered with aggregate to provide a durable and skid-resistant surface.
- Repair and Maintenance: It is also used for repair and maintenance of roads, including filling potholes, sealing cracks, and repairing minor surface defects.

Properties of Cutback Bitumen MC70
Cutback bitumen MC-70 possesses several properties that make it suitable for various applications in road construction and maintenance:
- Medium Curing Rate: MC-70 has a medium curing rate, allowing it to penetrate and bond effectively with the underlying surface while providing sufficient time for application.
- Viscosity: It has a specific viscosity, typically around 70 centistokes at 60°C, which influences its flow characteristics and application methods.
- Temperature Sensitivity: MC-70’s viscosity decreases as temperature rises, making it easier to handle and apply in warmer climates or during hot weather conditions.
- Volatility: MC-70 contains a volatile solvent, usually kerosene, which evaporates upon application, leaving behind a residual bitumen binder that adheres to the surface.
- Adhesion: It exhibits good adhesion properties, promoting bonding between different layers of asphalt and enhancing the overall structural integrity of pavements.
- Water Resistance: Once cured, MC-70 provides water resistance, protecting the underlying surface from moisture infiltration and damage.
- Durability: MC-70 contributes to the durability of asphalt pavements by improving the cohesion and strength of the asphalt mixtures.
Why do we choose Cutback Bitumen MC-70?
Cutback Bitumen MC-70 is chosen primarily for its effective performance in road construction and maintenance, particularly under specific environmental and project conditions.
- Workability at Low Temperatures
Ease of Application: MC-70 is a medium-curing cutback bitumen, which means it contains a petroleum solvent that lowers its viscosity, making it easier to work with at lower temperatures than traditional hot asphalt.
Suitable for Cooler Climates: This is especially helpful in regions with colder climates where heating traditional bitumen to high temperatures might not be practical or efficient. - Gradual Curing Time
Medium-Curing Properties: The “medium cure” nature of MC-70 allows it to gradually harden as the solvent evaporates after application. This makes it useful in applications where a slightly slower cure time can help with bonding and achieving a smoother, more even finish.
Strong Adhesion: The gradual curing process enables better penetration into road surfaces and stronger bonding with aggregates, which enhances the durability of the road layer. - Enhanced Adhesion and Bonding
Prime and Tack Coating: MC-70 is highly effective as a prime or tack coat, creating an adhesive layer that binds well to the aggregates or underlying road layers. This makes it ideal for preparing road bases for asphalt or bitumen layers, improving the lifespan and integrity of the road structure.
Surface Dressing: MC-70 is also effective in surface dressing applications, offering a protective layer and adding durability to the road surface by sealing small cracks and binding loose aggregates. - Cost-Effectiveness
Reduced Heating Costs: Because MC-70 doesn’t need to be heated to high temperatures, it saves on fuel costs and reduces time on site. This makes it a cost-effective choice for road maintenance and construction, especially on smaller or rural projects.
Efficient Usage in Low Traffic Roads: For lower-traffic roads or temporary surfaces, MC-70 provides sufficient durability without the need for more expensive asphalt mixes. - Versatile Application Options
Flexible Application: MC-70 can be used in a variety of ways, including priming, tack coating, and surface dressing. Its medium-curing nature provides flexibility in application, accommodating different road types and construction methods.
Ideal for Maintenance Projects: MC-70 is suitable for road repair and maintenance projects where quick and effective solutions are needed to improve the surface without extensive and costly construction work. - Compliance with Standards
Quality and Standards Compliance: MC-70 complies with ASTM and AASHTO standards for medium-curing cutback bitumen, ensuring that it meets the required performance and safety standards for infrastructure projects.
MC-70 Packing
- Bulk as IBC Tank, Flexi Tank
- Reconditioned steel drums 203 lit., Net Weight: 185 ± 5 Kg
- New steel drums 203 lit., Net Weight: 185 ± 5 Kg
Guaranty and Safety of Bitumen MC-70
The guarantee and safety of bitumen MC-70 depend on several factors:
- Quality Assurance : Ensuring that the MC-70 bitumen meets relevant quality standards, such as those set by regulatory authorities or industry organizations, can provide a level of guarantee regarding its performance and properties.
- Manufacturer Reputation : Choosing a reputable manufacturer with a track record of producing high-quality bitumen products can enhance the guarantee of the MC-70’s performance and consistency.
- Compliance with Regulations : Adhering to safety regulations and guidelines for handling, storage, transportation, and application of bitumen MC-70 is essential to minimize risks to workers, the environment, and the public.
- Proper Application : Following recommended application procedures and techniques, including surface preparation, temperature considerations, and application rates, can ensure the effective and safe use of bitumen MC-70.
- Safety Precautions : Implementing appropriate safety measures, such as providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers, controlling exposure to fumes, and managing fire hazards, is crucial to mitigate risks associated with handling and applying bitumen MC-70.
- Environmental Impact : Minimizing environmental impact through responsible use, spill prevention, and proper disposal of waste materials is essential for ensuring the safety and sustainability of bitumen MC-70 applications.
Specification of Bitumen MC70
| property | Specification Limit | Test method | |
| Min Max | |||
| Kinematic viscosity at 60°c, (cSt) | 70 | 140 | ASTM D2170 |
| Flashpoint(tag open cup), °c | 38 | — | ASTM D3143 |
| Distillation test | |||
| Distillate, volume percent of total Distillate to 680°f(360°c) | |||
| to 437°f(225°c) | — | 25 | ASTM D402 |
| To 500°f(260°c) | |||
| to 600°f(316°c) | 10 | 70 | |
| Residue from distillation to | 65 | 93 | |
| 680°f(360°c), percent volume by difference | 55 | — | |
| Test on Residue from distillation test | |||
| Penetration 77°f(25°c) dmm | 120 | 300 | ASTM D5 |
| Ductility 77°f(25°c) 5cm/min cm | 100 | — | ASTM D113 |
| Solubility in trichloroethylene % | 99 | — | ASTM D2042 |
| Water, percent volume | — | 0.2 | ASTM D95 |
Specification of Bitumen MC-70



